Madison Tree Removal Permits & Urban Forestry Rules

Land Use and Zoning Wisconsin 3 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026 Flag of Wisconsin

In Madison, Wisconsin, removing or significantly altering trees on public or private property often requires a permit and compliance with urban forestry rules administered by the City of Madison Parks Division and Urban Forestry program. This guide explains when a permit is needed, how to apply, enforcement and appeal paths, common violations, and practical action steps to remain compliant.

Always check city maps and property boundaries before pruning or removing trees.

When a Permit Is Required

Permits are typically required for removal of public street trees, trees protected by local ordinances, and for large removals on development sites. On private property, species, size, and location relative to protected features may affect permit requirements.

  • Contact the Urban Forestry office before work on street trees or trees near the public right-of-way.
  • Check property-specific protections such as historic-district controls or conservation easements which may impose additional requirements.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of tree removal and protection rules is handled by the City’s Urban Forestry program within Parks and Recreation and by code enforcement officers under applicable municipal ordinances. Specific fine amounts, graduated penalties, and time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.[1]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Escalation: information on first, repeat, or continuing offence escalations is not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions can include stop-work orders, mandatory replanting, replacement tree requirements, and court action where authorized by ordinance or code enforcement.
  • To report a suspected unlawful removal or request inspection, contact Urban Forestry via the City Parks reporting page in Resources below.
  • Appeals and reviews: the cited municipal resources do not list a specific appeal board or time limits; consult the Urban Forestry office for appeal steps and deadlines.[1]
If trees are on or overhanging the public right-of-way, do not remove them without prior authorization.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes permit applications and guidance for tree removals and related work on its Urban Forestry or Parks permit pages. Fees, form numbers, required attachments, and submission instructions are listed on the official pages when available; if a fee or form number is not listed, it is not specified on the cited page.[1]

  • Typical required materials: completed application form, site plan or sketch, photos of the tree, and justification for removal.
  • Fees and deposit information: not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Deadlines and processing times: check the Urban Forestry page or contact the Parks Division for current timelines.

How-To

  1. Identify the tree owner and whether the tree is in the public right-of-way or on private property.
  2. Review the City of Madison Urban Forestry permit requirements and download the Tree Removal Permit application from the official page.
  3. Complete the application, attach site plans and photos, and include any required professional assessments (arborist reports) if requested.
  4. Submit the application per instructions on the City’s permit page and pay any applicable fees.
  5. Schedule an inspection if required and await written authorization before proceeding with removal.
  6. If denied, follow the City-provided appeal or review process; seek written reasons and deadlines for appeal from the Urban Forestry contact.
Keep a dated record of all submissions, permits, and communications with city staff.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?
It depends on the tree location, size, species, and applicable protections; public right-of-way and protected trees generally require a permit.
How long does permit approval take?
Processing times vary; check the Urban Forestry permit page or contact the Parks Division for current estimates.
What if a contractor removed a tree without a permit?
Report the removal to Urban Forestry and code enforcement; the City may require mitigation, replanting, or assess penalties.

Key Takeaways

  • Always verify whether a tree sits in the public right-of-way before acting.
  • Obtain written authorization from Urban Forestry for removals when required.
  • Keep clear records of permits, inspections, and communications.

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